Through EU Support, the New Facility of Vladimir Nazor Primary School, Worth €7.2 Million, was officially opened

 

A new “Vladimir Nazor” Primary School facility, worth €7.2 million, was officially opened in Podgorica. Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro, Johann Sattler,  Prime Minister of Montenegro, Mr Milojko Spajić, the Minister of Education, Science and Innovation, Prof Dr Anđela Jakšić-Stojanović, and the Headmistress Ljiljana Marković attended the opening ceremony.

After several years, pupils from this part of the city will have access to a new school that can accommodate up to 1,200 students. The school features 29 equipped and modern classrooms, a library, a multimedia room, and a renovated gymnasium.

Ambassador Sattler standing behind lectern

Ambassador Sattler emphasised the importance of joint efforts and long-term investment in education: “This beautiful new school is proof of how much we can achieve when we work together – and it represents our sincere commitment to children, educators and the wider community. The European Union provided more than half of the funds for the construction of this school, with additional support coming in the form of a gift – a donation from European countries. We are proud to invest in a space where knowledge grows, children thrive, and new opportunities are born,” said Sattler.

Minister Jakšić-Stojanović stated that the construction of this school is the best example of how great achievements are possible through unity. “Let this new school be a place where new ideas are born – ideas that will shape the future of generations to come, where our young people will grow into the leaders, scientists, and innovators of tomorrow,” the Minister highlighted.

Audience standing

Expressing gratitude to pupils, parents, and the school staff for their patience and perseverance in overcoming the challenges of organising teaching, Vladimir Nazor Primary School Director Ljiljana Marković stated: “From this moment, we are turning a new chapter in the school's history, which dates back to 1958.”

Chairwoman of the Parents’ Council, Jelena Milošević, said: “Let this be a place where knowledge is acquired, but also where love, respect and solidarity are nurtured. Let it stand as a symbol of victory and unity.”

Conductor conducting the choir

The new school facility was funded 63% through a European Investment Bank (EIB) loan, 30% through a grant from the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) and bilateral donors, and 7% from the national budget.

Construction began in 2023 after the old building was demolished for safety reasons. Since 2021, pupils have attended classes at Marko Miljanov Primary School in Konik, Luča High School in Doljani, and Novka Ubović Primary School in Tološi.